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Following a welcome address by Prof. Dr Frank Ordon, President of the JKI, a series of greetings and contributions highlighted Julius Kühn’s enduring influence on agricultural research and education, with speakers Cornelia Berns, Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Regional Identity (BMLEH), Dr Franziska Kersten, Member of the German Bundestag, Carl-Albrecht Bartmer, former President of the German Agricultural Society (DLG) and descendant of Julius Kühn and Dr Renate Schafberg from the Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Museum of Domestic Animal Research “Julius Kühn.”

Scientific presentations by Prof. Dr Klaus Pillen (MLU), Dr Bernd Hackauf (JKI), and Prof. Dr Johannes Hallmann (JKI) showcased how Kühn’s principles continue to inspire current research, from cereal breeding and genetic improvement to sustainable pest and disease management.

A highlight of the celebration was the opening of the new permanent exhibition “Julius Kühn and the JKI”, which can now be visited in the foyer of the institute’s headquarters in Quedlinburg. Developed in cooperation with local partners, the exhibition presents Julius Kühn’s life and scientific achievements, the evolution of the Julius Kühn Institute, and the continued relevance of his work for modern plant science.

Under the guiding motto “The highest scientific aim is the practical aim… Our task is usefulness,” the exhibition illustrates how Kühn’s approach to combine science with practical application remains at the heart of agricultural research today. It reminds us that true scientific progress depends on interdisciplinary thinking and long-term vision.